A county trackhoe excavator begins demolishing the old Helper pool Thursday morning. By the end of the day, only a pile of rubble remained. With the city council having selected a construction manager, the project is moving forward and construction is expected to commence in March.

Helper took the first step last Thursday in a project designed to replace the city's more than 70-year-old swimming pool.

City and county crews demolished the existing structure at the Helper park in preparation for the construction phase of the project.

Construction is expected to begin in March.

The city council recently selected Westland Construction Inc. of Provo at project manager. The company will oversee the construction phase.

The new swimming pool is scheduled to open by summer in time for the July 4 holiday.

The facility will include a five-lane 2,850 square foot swimming pool with two diving boards, a 2,180 square foot aquatic play area equipped with spray features and access for people with disabilities.

The 4,000 square foot building will contain locker rooms, showers, restrooms and special features. Features include two family changing rooms, a pool side concessions stand and restrooms accessible from the outside for people using the park.

Wide decks will provide room for sunbathers and a shaded area will be available for people wishing to avoid the sun.

Total cost of the facility will be approximately $1 million. Coordinated by the Helper community development committee, the project will be funded by grants from the Eccle's Foundation, Utah Permanent Community Impact Board and United Way along with a zero interest CIB loan. Local residents and businesses have contributed more than $6,500 in cash donations to the project.

Helper plans to upgrade the city park with new playground equipment during the course of new pool construction.